President of Czech Republic to Visit Canada

"Canada is honoured by President Havel's visit," said the Prime Minister. "He was one of the key players in the historic changes in Central Europe a decade ago. His personal stature and moral authority was essential to the peaceful transformation of his country from communism to democracy. And under his leadership, the Czech Republic has become one of the first former Warsaw Pact nations to join NATO. I look forward to discussing new opportunities for expanding our bilateral relationship."

President Havel's second state visit to Canada and first as President of the Czech Republic will begin in Winnipeg on April 28. There, he will meet with Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba Peter Liba and Premier of Manitoba Gary Filmon. He will also meet members of the Canadian-Czech community and receive an Honorary Degree from the University of Manitoba.

From Winnipeg, President Havel travels to Ottawa, where he will address Parliament and meet with Governor General Roméo LeBlanc, the Prime Minister and other Ministers.

PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555


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